A few questions for Minelab users

[Clad the Impaler]

Hi. First question (for E-Trac users): I will be purchasing a new E-Trac sometime between now and the end of March. I am trying to decide if I should also get a SunRay probe with it. I currently use a Garrett ProPointer. I have heard adding a SunRay will make the detector weigh more, and might cause some problems with arm fatigue. I am attracted to the SunRay, however, as I like the fact that it's attached to the detector, and you can hear the detectors tones through it. So, do I get one or not? Pros and cons? Thoughts? Ok, second question: what's the difference between the Explorer II and the Explorer XS? The reason I'm asking is I am also considering getting (eventually) a second/backup detector and am looking at an EX II or XS, as opposed to using the Ace 250 that I currently have. Thanks!!

 

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[Iron Patch]

Well you should try swinging the e-trac first and see if you get used to the weight. If it feels good right away you can probably adjust to the Sunray as well. Mounting it back by the armrest helps a lot, but I still prefer it on the upper shaft because it's much quicker for me to grab and put back.

The Explorer II basically just fixed the problems with the XS.... which were a better plastic housing that wouldn't crack as easy and give the detector the wobbles, and a metal detector rest instead of a foolish coil rest which had everyone having to purchase a Sunray stand. They also made the digital numbers dual instead of a single number, and gave a wider range to adjust the threshold. If buying a used Explorer in my opinion the II is the best to get of the three models. I wouldn't turn down an XS for the right price, but it would have to damn near look like new.

 

[Jason in Enid]

The Sunray probe adds ounces to the total weight. I don't notice any difference between now and before I had the Sunray. The E-Trac is a heavy detector, but it's like you will pick it up and say "dang, thats heavy". It just gets noticeable after a few hours of use.

As for the Sunray... You can't forget it at home, it's attached to the detector. You won't have it's batteries die because it uses the the power going to the coil (it doesn't drain the detector batteries any faster than without it). You get to hear the target signal in your headphones. You get to analyze the target with the same discrimination as when using the coil, or using all metal. You get to use the same pinpointing of the target in the hole as you would use with the coil.

I absolutely LOVE my Sunray probe. I was a staunch holdout that those things were gimicks and REAL detectorists didn't need them. I'll never hunt without one now!

 

[Clad the Impaler]

Thanks very much for the replies everyone. I think I will end up getting a Sunray, and just keep my ProPointer as a backup. worst case scenario, if the weight bothers me enough, I'll just take the Sunray off and use the ProPointer. Looks like I'm going to go for a used EX II as a backup detector. I love my Ace, but I'm getting bored with it, and the lack of depth and separation is aggravating.

 

[Iron Patch]

Thanks very much for the replies everyone. I think I will end up getting a Sunray, and just keep my ProPointer as a backup. worst case scenario, if the weight bothers me enough, I'll just take the Sunray off and use the ProPointer. Looks like I'm going to go for a used EX II as a backup detector. I love my Ace, but I'm getting bored with it, and the lack of depth and separation is aggravating.

You should do yourself a favor and get and try the Explorer II first because I would buy it over the E-trac. (and for back-up I would buy a second)

 

[stasys]

to use explorer or etrac without sunray probe you need second upper shaft, because sunray probe switch is mounted for the rest of the life. before spending money use etrac with garrett and learn how you like. because they are heavy at least for me.

 

[EZrider]

Used both and i like the Pro pointer better.

 

[Randy NTX]

I use the Garrett ProPointer with my E-Trac and it works great. I also have a Detector Pro Pistol Probe but it drives my E-Trac nuts. I have only had the E-Trac for about a month and was going to wait to see if I liked it and then decide on getting the Sunray probe. I love the E-Trac but right now I am going to stick with the Garrett ProPointer. HH - Randy

 

[Ronfrommichigan]

If you decide on a used Explorer XS avoid the 1999 bad plastic and cam locks the 2000 model has less issues.The seller only has to turn the machine on and this will show the model on the first screen.Good luck with your purchase.HH Ron

 

[yarddigger]

yes, yes, and did i say yes?? !! never have used such an awesome pin pointer.... makes target recovery a breeze. love mine. was even kicking the idea around of purchasing the new sunray coil... forget the size at the moment.. literally moves the iron away from masking a deep silver coin.. witnessed a recovery of an 1878 seated dime next to a horseshoe ( 12" )

 

[Deepdiger60]

Go with the E-Trac and sun ray probe and yes mount it on the upper shaft , i did my Sov.GT that way just below the arm cup lt is a great tool and gets good depth on targets when finding them in a deep hole Good Luck Jim